Adjusting well...

Hard to believe that Susanna arrived over 2 weeks ago! It’s been an eventful time, and we’ve all been adjusting to our new lives. Susanna is doing great—she sleeps well, eats well, and has been the definition of an easy baby. She’s had several firsts in the past couple of weeks—first outing, first doctor visit, first time meeting lots and lots of family and friends, first bath, first portraits taken, and more. And she’s beginning to fill out—her preemie clothes and diapers are fitting pretty well now!
So what does Caleb think of his new sister? Well, he’s very affectionate toward his little “Susannie”—freely giving kisses and hugs and helping take care of her. He likes to hold her and thinks the faces and noises she makes are hilarious. It has been hard on him at times, however, to share his Mommy and Daddy and the attention he’s used to getting. We can sense the insecurity and uncertainty that he’s feeling, but he’s learning, and we’re learning how to help him adjust.
Gracy is recovering well and is nearly back to normal. Though we both could use a little more sleep, we don’t have much to complain about. Overall, the transition has been exceptionally smooth, and we couldn't be more grateful for our precious growing family.

Welcome, little one!

She is here! Our precious gift, Susanna Lynn Bondy, arrived Wednesday evening, March 14th at 8:41 pm, weighing 5 lbs. 15 oz. and measuring 19.5 inches. Gracy began experiencing signs of early labor on Tuesday, and by Wednesday morning, we were certain that our baby would be arriving soon. We made phone calls, canceled appointments, called our doctor, and after a long day at home, staying busy and passing the time, we headed for the hospital a little after five pm. We checked in around six, and Susanna entered the world less than 3 hours later! Though she was about 2 weeks early, she is perfectly healthy, and we are so grateful for a smooth delivery with no complications.
Caleb was able to meet his little sister shortly after she was born. It was love at first sight. He was so gentle and curious, giving her hugs, telling her, "I lu' you," and even singing a bit of "Oh, Susanna!" when she began to fuss.
Already our tiny bundle has more than made up for her size with the impact she has had on our hearts. We are sitting here gazing at her curious eyes, alive and filled with wonder, and there is truly nothing in the world like the feeling of your heart expanding to love more than you ever thought possible.
We look forward to learning and growing as parents and as people as our family and responsibilities increase. Thank you to the many of you who have already offered invaluable advice and support. Life is meant to be shared. Thank you for sharing it with us.

2 more weeks!!!

Hard to believe that our little girl will be here in 2 weeks or so! I've been nesting alot lately--getting the room ready, putting little pink clothes in their places, and finishing the blanket I'm making for her. It's amazing all the thought and care that goes into preparing for a baby, and how much fun it can be. I'm feeling ready now--not just physically!--but emotionally I'm ready for my heart to expand once again beyond all I could have ever thought possible. The journey of bringing life into this world is truly incredible, and I'm grateful for every step--the hope and the anticipation, the preparation and the waiting, and finally the fulfillment of wishes and dreams on the day that we hold her in our arms.

Celebration!

On February 22, my (Gracy's) Grandma Kate Holder turned 94 years old, and on Sunday we had her birthday celebration, complete with a cake adorned with 94 shining candles. Can you imagine being born in 1913--all the changes she's seen and experienced? I have such a deep appreciation for her and the heritage that I have through her. She is a pillar of faith, strength, and love in both her family and in her community, and I'm so thankful to know her and to have this time with her.

Thank you, students!

On Friday morning, the high school students that David teaches once a week gave us a baby shower. We had cake and snacks, were entertained by a great skit, opened gifts, and played a round of UNO. One of the students whose hobby is woodcrafting made some really neat gifts for our kids--a toy rocking horse for the baby and a car and truck for Caleb. They are a great group, and they really did alot to make us feel special.

A special visit...

Last week, Caleb and I (Gracy) went with my mom to see my Grandma Harper. We had a really neat visit. She loved watching Caleb dance to the piano music that she loves, and she got to feel the baby kicking and moving. She was doing better than she has in a long time, and it was great to see her smiling and laughing. She's 86 now, and her memory is not good, but she's just as precious and loving as ever. It was special to have four generations together, and I hope for many more visits like this one.